Author and Coach Janice Pettit-Brundage | Star Profile

Sharita Star Radio

Sweet Bird of Prey | 06 March 2012

What's Your Sign? I Have Your Number!

Sharita was so honored to have the innate communicating talents of Author Janice Pettit-Brundage for an hour that celebrated her latest release, 'Sweet Bird of Prey.' Aside from the wonders of Janice's star secrets profile, a special discussion unfolded that related her incredible journey that now has become a true source of healing for those who have experienced teen suicide and how their Loved Ones, in the aftermath, cope with it's gripping loss.

About Janice Pettit-Brundage:

Janice Pettit-Brundage grew up in Woodbury Heights, New Jersey. After graduating from Gateway Regional High School, she attended Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer, North Carolina. In 1997, she graduated with a major in sociology and a minor in criminal justice.

After graduation Janice began her career working for the State of New Jersey-Juvenile Justice Commission. During that time, she created a fast-pitch training academy called Pettit’s Pitchers. In 1999, she worked with The Astor Home for Children doing social work for teens and families in Poughkeepsie, New York. In 2003, Janice switched careers and became a full time coach for the NCAA at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, New York.

While facilitating her private business and coaching, Janice began to explore the literary world. In late 2006, she began writing her first book, Sweet Bird of Prey. It is a personal and beloved fictional story that describes teen depression, bullying, and suicide.

Presently, Janice is a volunteer with The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). She serves as a volunteer for the education department and is trained as a group facilitator and Outreach Coordinator for teen survivors in the Hudson Valley, New York.
Janice offers presentations that cover teen depression, suicide awareness, and pressing teen issues that are highlighted in her book.

About Sweet Bird of Prey:

Thirteen year old Shannon Bennet has a complex and confusing relationship with her brother, Phillip, who suffers from undiagnosed depression and takes his own life. Phillip’s suicide throws Shannon into a turbulent mix of emotions, forcing her to deal with anger, sorrow, and guilt. Shannon experiences all of this while trying to navigate through her high school years.

As narrated from her perspective, Shannon describes the aftermath of loss and how it affects her relationships, her thoughts on God, and her overall social life.

Sweet Bird of Prey is a story that highlights issues such as bullying, loss, boyfriend drama, the relationship between mother and daughter, gossipy girls, drinking, social dilemmas, depression, suicide, and high school cliques. Sweet Bird of Prey is about hope, and how, through the process of death, Shannon finds peace.

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